France: Thousands protest against proposed COVID vaccine pass amid Omicron rise

Amid surge in COVID cases all across world, governments are imposing new restrictions to curtail spre of dely virus. Although measures being implemented are for safety of people, re are a large number of people who stand against COVID protocols. In France, more than 100,000 people gared on streets to protest against upcoming rules that include a mandatory vaccine pass for entry into various public spaces. demonstrators, who were present in a very large number, raised slogans against French President Emmanuel Macron and held placards over Marcon's vow to "piss off unvaccinated".

As per interior ministry's estimate, around 105,200 people took part in 179 rallies, including 18,000 in Paris. Protesters became violent in several locations after police officers fired tear gas at m, resulting in a clash that left 10 police officers injured and 34 demonstrators arrested. bill proposed in lower house of France's parliament mandated a COVID vaccine report inste of a negative COVID-19 test to gain access to various public spaces.

protestors believe that government is snatching ir rights and freedoms and creating a division in society. While thousands targeted at Marco's remark he me earlier this week telling Le Parisian newspaper that he would make life harder for unvaccinated people and "piss off" those who refuse to take vaccine. On or hand, a separate rally including only vaccinated people h gared to show support for Macron and his idea of vaccine pass. "Thanks, Macron, for thinking about us," re placards waved by supporters.

However, this is not first time country has witnessed a protest against COVID vaccine mandate. Earlier on December 18, more than 25,000 people gared on streets protesting against COVID restrictions. Among or European countries, France has highest rate of vaccination as more than 90% of people over age 12 have received both shots. While more than 5.2 million people in country have opted to remain unvaccinated.

COVID situation France

Meanwhile, COVID cases across France are rising rapidly as a new variant of COVID-19, Omicron, is getting stronger. country reported 303,669 new cases in last 24 hours, a day after 328,214 people tested positive and daily infection reached 332,252 on Wednesday, marking a third-day record that exceeded 300,000 mark.

Image: AP